Pregnancy Week 30

Your 30th Week of Pregnancy -
The Third Trimester

Your Baby - 30 Weeks Pregnant

Your baby's permanent teeth have developed and are waiting in his gums. Your baby is very aware of his surroundings and his eyelids will open and close. He will even look around and turn toward light. We tend to think of the uterus as a dark place but the uterus actually can be light and dark depending on your environment. Your baby weighs almost three pounds now and is approximately 15.5 inches long.

You may be able to distinguish sleeping and waking cycles in your baby. Although it usually seems as if the baby wants to sleep while you are awake, and vice versa, this is not indicative of a sleepless newborn. Your baby can not only hear your voice, but can recognize it. Also, he has
a grip so strong it is capable of gripping your finger. At this point, your baby may be practicing nursing as he sucks his thumb. He has lungs that are capable of breathing air, although medical help may be needed. About 9 out of 10 babies born now will survive.

Your Body - 30 Weeks Pregnant

Although you may not feel like it, exercise is a great way to keep up your energy and stamina. Taking a nice leisurely walk or swimming a couple laps of the pool can help more than you think. Also, your posture is very important to your comfort so remember to continue practicing the mechanics of good posture. Sleeping may also be a problem now, so remember
to use pillows to prop or support your legs and belly. Also, sleeping on your left side may help as well.

You may find yourself with a nasty case of heartburn from time to time. This is caused as the uterus grows and displaces some of your internal organs. However, don't let it get you down. To help, remaining seated or upright for at least 30 to 45 minutes after eating a meal. If heartburn is interfering with sleep, try sleeping in a recliner. Some women report that eating smaller, more frequent meals helps, as well as staying away from spicy, greasy or heavy foods. Remember to talk to your doctor before taking anything for your heartburn - even over the counter medications.

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Your pregnancy is determined from the date of last menstral period, not date of conception. Each pregnancy, expectant mother, and unborn child is different. Your pregnancy may not progress the same as the information found here. The information here is based on the average pregnancy. It is not meant to be a replacement for any advice your may recieve from your doctor. If you have any concerns about your pregnancy, we advise you to contact your doctor.